Chhattisgarh unveils plan for full mineral value chain, invites investors
Chhattisgarh aims to build a complete mineral value chain from exploration to recycling, showcasing critical mineral potential at a roadshow for the eighth tranche of mineral block auctions.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday outlined the state's ambition to develop a complete mineral value chain within its borders, spanning exploration, mining, processing, value addition, advanced manufacturing, and recycling. He made the remarks while addressing a roadshow for the eighth tranche of critical and strategic mineral block auctions.
The eighth tranche features 20 mineral blocks across seven states, with five located in Chhattisgarh. Sai urged investors to participate in the auction and explore opportunities in processing, value addition, innovation, and downstream industries, highlighting the state's mineral wealth as a draw for investment and job creation.
Sai detailed the state's critical mineral potential, citing lithium and rare earth elements in Katghora and Bastar, graphite, vanadium, and gallium in Balrampur, phosphorite in Balod, and nickel, chromium, and glauconite in Mahasamund. He noted that mineral revenue has grown from around Rs 400 crore at the state's formation to over Rs 16,000 crore, with funds directed toward development and public welfare, including projects in mining-affected areas.
During the event, the chief minister launched two digital platforms: E-Ret Sangwari, which facilitates concessional sand supply for Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana beneficiaries, and the Tin Portal, designed to ensure fair prices and transparency for tribal communities involved in tin-related activities in Dantewada.
Mineral Resources Secretary P Dayanand said the state is strengthening scientific exploration, geological data collection, mapping, and transparent auction systems to promote mineral-based industries and local employment. Chhattisgarh Mineral Development Corporation Managing Director Rajat Bansal reported that 65 mineral blocks have been auctioned so far, with potential revenue estimated at around Rs 4 lakh crore. He added that 40 exploration projects have been launched and over 2,800 km of geological surveys completed in the past two and a half years.
Two memorandums of understanding were signed at the programme: one between the Chhattisgarh Mineral Development Corporation and Indian Overseas Bank for financial cooperation, and another with Pt Ravishankar Shukla University for training in corundum cutting and polishing.